Police and Customs officers have recovered what is believed to be a substantial amount of drugs from a Bermudian and a cruise ship worker.

The seizure occurred around 12.30 a.m. yesterday after the two men, who are thought to be in their 20's, were spotted near the Nordic Empress at Dockyard.

Police acting on intelligence reports chased the pair and arrested them. They found powder and plant material.

Collector of Customs William Ledrew said the arrests were a vindication of the controversial decision taken earlier this year to remove Customs officers from 24-hour duty at the cruise ships.

Teams of mobile Customs officers now move between the cruise ports of St.

George's, Dockyard and Hamilton responding to intelligence tip-offs. They can also make random searches of passengers and staff.

Mr. Ledrew said last night: "It is good news in the sense that it appears to have intercepted drugs. On the other hand, it tells me that our suspicions have been confirmed about drugs coming off the cruise ships.''